An interesting contrast between the geology of the present…
““An interesting contrast between the geology of the present day and that of half a century ago, is presented by the complete emancipation of the modern geologist from the controlling and perverting influence of theology, all-powerful at the earlier date. As the geologist of my young days wrote, he had one eye upon fact, and the other on Genesis; at present, he wisely keeps both eyes on fact, and ignores the pentateuchal mythology altogether. The publication of the 'Principles of Geology' brought upon its illustrious author a period of social ostracism; the instruction given to our children is based upon those principles. Whewell had the courage to attack Lyell 's fundamental assumption (which surely is a dictate of common sense) that we ought to exhaust known causes before seeking for the explanation of geological phenomena in causes of which we have no experience.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Science freed itself from theological constraints, focusing on empirical evidence over myth.
In simple terms: Science chose facts over myth.
Key Takeaway
Base conclusions on evidence, not doctrine.
Themes
science
empiricism
freedom
Mood
analytical
historical
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- research methodology
- public policy
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
history of ideas
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance faith and evidence?
- What role should tradition play in scientific progress?
A Different Perspective
Transition can face resistance from entrenched beliefs.